Taylor Swift started a new fashion trend when she wore a red and gray plaid skirt set this season. The look quickly became a must-have style, and celebrities like Jennifer Garner and Kelly Clarkson jumped on board with this versatile trend.
This pattern now dominates both high-end fashion and budget-friendly options. Plaid fashion pieces are available at every price point. The Urban CoCo Plaid Pleated Mini Skirt costs just $20, while the Puwei Long Plaid Shacket has over 4,700 perfect ratings on Amazon.
Our fashion editor team is excited to see this classic pattern progress into one of fall’s hottest trends. The style offers endless possibilities to create looks for any occasion.
The Rise of Plaid Skirt Set in 2024
Plaid skirt sets have taken the fall 2024 runways by storm, as designers give this classic pattern a fresh, modern twist.
From runway to street-style
A 1978 archive piece inspired Chemena Kamali’s first collection at Chloé, where she created plaid dusters paired with handwritten gold metal belts. This pattern quickly moved beyond the catwalk and caught on with fashion lovers, who now rock both mini and midi versions of these matching sets.
Celebrity influence on the trend
Mindy Kaling turned heads at Paris Fashion Week in a brown double-breasted plaid outfit that captured this trend’s modern spirit.
Taylor Swift’s influence on the trend stands out, as she sports various designer plaid sets, including a green Miu Miu button-up shirt and pleated miniskirt combo priced at $2,250 each.
Key designer collections
Leading fashion houses have put their unique spin on the fall 2024 season:
- Maria Grazia Chiuri brought ’60s confidence to Dior with windowpane check skirt suits
- Daniel Lee created functional yet glamorous outdoor-inspired pieces at Burberry
- Yohji Yamamoto crafted cubism-inspired suits with bold geometric patterns
Designers have made these sets work for everyone by creating styles that fit different occasions. People style their plaid sets in countless ways, from polished office looks to casual weekend outfits. This trend now exceeds its preppy origins and speaks to fashion lovers with different style priorities.
How to Style Plaid Skirt Sets
Becoming skilled at styling plaid skirt sets creates endless possibilities to dress up or down your outfits.
Plaid Skirt Set: Office-ready combinations
A plaid pencil skirt with opaque black tights makes an excellent foundation for business attire. You can create a polished look by tucking a long-sleeved blouse into the skirt and adding a structured blazer or cardigan.
Black loafers or Oxford shoes complete this sophisticated ensemble. Classic patterns in black and white or navy and green stay timeless and workplace-appropriate.
A solid-colored blouse goes together with these patterns that complement the skirt’s color palette. A neutral-toned blazer can raise the overall look.
Weekend casual looks
Plaid skirt sets show remarkable versatility during off-duty hours. Here are some easy combinations:
- An oversized sweater over a plaid wrap skirt with white trainers works great for daytime errands to evening socializing
- A graphic blouse with a pleated skirt and sneakers creates a relaxed yet put-together look
- A simple tank top with an A-line skirt and sandals suits casual outings
- A cozy sweater and boots combination works great for weekend strolls, especially during fall and winter
A classic trench coat makes a foolproof addition to any plaid skirt outfit. Nude pumps or block heels make your legs look longer while you retain control of professional appeal. Black tights with flats and a simple black top create a warm yet fashionable outfit on chilly days.
Choosing the Perfect Plaid Pattern
Your choice of plaid pattern can make or break your sophisticated look.
Classic color combinations
Black and white or navy and green combinations work best in professional settings.
Neutral or traditional kilt colors create an elegant look that fits perfectly in business casual environments. Red and green plaids are common choices, but creamy beige and nude patterns offer a fresh view.
Scale and proportion tips
Pattern size affects the overall visual effect a lot. A standard plaid pattern typically measures 6 to 8 inches in repeat size. Symmetry and balance are vital elements that create an aesthetically pleasing look. The pattern should have even proportions on both sides of the central line.
Matching your body type
Plaid patterns can flatter different body shapes in unique ways. Here’s what works best for your figure:
- Pear-shaped: A-line plaid skirts with a gentle flare from the hips create balance. Dark colors work better on the bottom
- Apple-shaped: Vertical plaids help create a lengthening effect. High-waisted styles improve this even more
- Hourglass: Fitted plaid patterns highlight your natural curves. Just avoid overwhelming designs
- Rectangle: Asymmetrical plaid patterns add visual interest and create an illusion of curves
Thin vertical lines in plaid patterns create a slimming effect. High-waisted styles that sit at or above your natural waistline look great on most body types. Fabric quality matters too – traditional patterns in neutral colors with the best available fabric keep your outfit from looking cheap.
Mixing and Matching Plaid Pieces
Pattern mixing has become a game-changing approach to styling plaid skirt sets.
Plaid Skirt Set: Creating versatile outfits
Successful pattern mixing begins with understanding the scale. A small plaid skirt paired with larger floral prints creates dynamic contrast.
The outfits look best with a unified color scheme – at least one common color should appear in both patterns. Neutral pieces provide a solid foundation for those just starting with pattern experimentation.
A striped blouse matched with a plaid skirt makes an eye-catching combination. The secret lies in balancing busy patterns with solid pieces to avoid overwhelming the eye.
Texture plays a vital role in creating distinctive looks. Different fabrics add depth to your outfit as seasons change – silk tops work beautifully with cotton or linen bottoms.
Accessorizing your plaid set
Your accessories should complement rather than compete with the plaid pattern. Here’s a curated selection of accessories that boost plaid sets:
- Jewelry: Simple stud earrings or delicate necklaces add elegance without overwhelming
- Bags: Structured handbags for formal occasions, crossbody bags for casual outings
- Footwear: Mary Janes for retro charm, block heels for sophistication
- Belts: Choose contrasting colors or interesting textures to define the waist
Classic handbags perfectly complement plaid sets for vintage enthusiasts. Plaid’s versatility shines through – a statement necklace or vintage brooch can reshape the scene.
Plaid’s eye-catching nature demands thoughtful accessory selection. Pick pieces that complement your skirt’s colors while adding subtle interest to your outfit. A skirt with red and black tones pairs well with accessories that echo these colors without exact matching.
Conclusion
Plaid skirt sets have definitely become this season’s most versatile fashion statement. These sets work perfectly from office meetings to weekend brunches. We’ve seen celebrities like Taylor Swift and Mindy Kaling rock designer versions, while budget-friendly options are now available to everyone.
Smart pattern selection and styling choices will help you nail the plaid look. These sets give you endless possibilities, from classic black-and-white combinations to bold modern takes.
Your body type plays a crucial role in finding flattering patterns, and the right accessories can raise the entire look. Plaid skirt sets will stay a wardrobe must-have long after this season ends.
Their classic appeal and fresh styling options make them a smart investment for anyone who loves fashion. Note that true style comes from wearing what feels authentic – pick patterns and combinations that match your personal taste while using these tips as your guide.
